[lin_video src=http://eplayer.clipsyndicate.com/embed/player.js?aspect_ratio=16×9&auto_next=1&auto_start=0&div_id=videoplayer-1378179501&height=480&page_count=5&pf_id=9624&show_title=1&va_id=4281962&width=640&windows=2 service=syndicaster width=640 height=480 div_id=videoplayer-1378179501 type=script]COLUMBIANA, Ala. (WIAT)- Paradise Park Marina is a popular Shelby County spot for boaters and water sports enthusiasts. On Labor Day, however, it becomes somewhat of an adult playground. “We’ve been swimming, drinking, listening to music, just whatever,” said Robin Muniz, hanging out on a pier with friends and family. “Just having a good time.”

Austin Rogers was also at Paradise Park on Labor Day, but for a much different reason; he was working on the holiday in honor of the American worker. “If this place wasn’t open, a lot of people wouldn’t be able to use their boats,” he said. His duties include loading and unloading boats, cleaning the on-site store, and taking inventory, but adds sometimes he wishes he was tackling other tasks. “Sometimes you see a fisherman come in and he’s caught some fish, and I wish I was out there instead of having to work,” he said, but added that it’s part of his job and that Labor Day is just another day to him.

Labor Day was made an official holiday in 1894, and, “…is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers” (Source: U.S. Department of Labor). Muniz and company say they work all year-round, and that they and all other workers need a break. “I always look forward to Labor Day,” said Muniz. “It’s the one freebie we get for just being who we are.”